Panoramic treasure unveiled at QMM

A VIBRANT mural celebrating the borough and its maritime history has found a new home at the Gil Allbutt Boat Shed, located within the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum (QMM).

Painted in 1991 by Marina Baker, the Queenscliffe Panoramic Mural stands at a stunning 13 metres in length and depicts Queenscliff, Swan Bay and Point Lonsdale.

The artwork, which has been in storage for several years and has rarely been exhibited in full due to its size, is on loan from the Borough of Queenscliffe for the next 12 months, presenting both locals and visitors with a unique opportunity to experience a piece of the region’s history.

Despite its years in storage, the mural has been carefully preserved and remains as vivid in colour as ever.

QMM president Kerri Erler said the museum was delighted to be able to display the mural in its full glory.

“It really sets off the maritime theme of the museum and hopefully it will attract more people to come in and see the museum,” she said.

“A lot of people don’t know the treasures we have here, and so this mural shows what a treasure Queenscliff is. It’s just an amazing visual feature.”

Borough mayor Di Rule said the Gil Allbutt Boat Shed was the perfect setting for the artwork, which was originally commissioned by the borough in the early 1990s.

“At 13 metres long, there’s a lot to see, so set aside some time to have a really look good,” she said.

“Council thanks the museum for giving this stunning piece a home.”

Deputy mayor Brendan Monahan said it was fascinating to see how much has changed in the borough.

“I encourage maritime buffs, and anyone interested, to visit QMM and take a look,” he said.

The Queenscliffe Maritime Museum is at 2 Wharf Street, Queenscliff, and is open between 11am and 4pm daily, except on Tuesdays and some public holidays.

For more information, head to maritimequeenscliffe.org.au